Problem solver
Ants in the kitchen: why now, and what to do
A line of tiny ants across the counter is one of the most common pest calls in Atlanta, and it often happens during a hot, dry stretch.
Why they came in
UGA Extension reports that drought drives Argentine ants indoors in search of water and food. Rain-soaked mulch beds and leaks can also push colonies toward the house.
Do this, in order
- Watch the trail to find where the ants enter and what they’re after.
- Clean up the food with soapy water. Seal sweets, pet food and recycling.
- Use bait, not spray, along the trail. Sprays kill foragers and can split colonies.
- Fix moisture: leaky faucets, dishwasher lines, condensation.
- Seal entries after activity drops: window frames, plumbing penetrations.
When to call a professional
If trails keep coming back after two weeks of baiting, if you see large black ants (possible carpenter ants), or if you see winged ants indoors, get an inspection.
Sources
Sources reviewed November 2026. Regulations change; confirm with the issuing agency.